Long & Foster Agent Helps Afghan Family Triumph Over Adversity and Find a Home in Aldie

The remarkable journey of Hasib Satary and Zuhal Hasib, an Afghan couple and their children who relocated to the United States from Afghanistan last year, has taken an incredible turn as they proudly announce the purchase of their new home in Aldie, Virginia. 

With the help of Long & Foster Real Estate agent Jesse Thorpe from the Leesburg office, Prosperity Home Mortgage Loan Consultant Brian Hope, and their partners at RGS Title, this family’s dream of homeownership became a reality. Their inspiring story of resilience, sacrifice, and dedication to service has captivated hearts around the world.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to call Aldie our home,” said Satary and Hasib. “The warmth and support we have received from the community has been overwhelming. We look forward to contributing to the vibrant town of Aldie and creating a bright future for our children.”

Satary was an employee at the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan. His unwavering commitment to the U.S. military and U.S. Embassy over the past decade exemplifies the courage and loyalty of those who served alongside him. A witness to his selfless acts, Thorpe, a former colleague who served together with Satary from 2012-2013, recalls the extraordinary lengths his colleague went to in order to protect U.S. Embassy personnel – even at the risk of his own safety.

“In the wake of the Taliban takeover and the perilous circumstances that followed, Hasib and his family made a daring escape to the United States,” said Thorpe. “Their courage and resilience during these harrowing times serve as an inspiration to all.”

Satary has now embarked on a new chapter of life as a supervisor with Lutheran Services, a Refugee Social Services Employment Program. In this capacity, he assists immigrants, refugees, and asylees in finding self-sufficient pathways to become U.S. citizens. Satary’s firsthand experience as a refugee enables him to empathize with the challenges faced by those seeking a fresh start in their adopted homeland.

The triumph of this family over adversity stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the resilience of those who seek a better life. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of compassion, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom. 

Long & Foster Real Estate, Prosperity Home Mortgage, and RGS Title are proud to have had a part in helping Satary and Hasib achieve the American Dream of home ownership.

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Cindy Ariosa Named by Daily Record as a 2023 Influential Marylander Circle of Influence Honoree

Long & Foster senior vice president is the only residential real estate candidate selected

Long & Foster Real Estate is proud to announce Cindy Ariosa, senior vice president and regional manager, has been recognized by The Daily Record as a 2023 Influential Marylander on their prestigious Circle of Influence list.

To be inducted into the Circle of Influence, candidates must be honored as an Influential Marylander three separate times. Achieving this honor requires a minimum of six years of sustained achievement. Circle of Influence honorees are stellar examples of what makes an Influential Marylander – a civic leader who constantly works to improve the lives of Maryland’s citizens.

Winners were selected by The Daily Record’s editors for their significant contributions to their respective fields. Many nominations were received from various parts of the state, but only 52 individuals from all businesses were chosen as recipients. Ariosa was the only residential real estate candidate selected as a winner and one of four individuals inducted into the Circle of Influence as a three-time winner.

The names of the 2023 Influential Marylanders were recently announced in print publications, online at TheDailyRecord.com and through an email blast to subscribers. The award winners will be recognized and celebrated at The Grand Lodge in Cockeysville on September 21.

Ariosa has been with Long & Foster for more than 20 years and serves as senior vice president for the Baltimore/Eastern Shore/Western Maryland regions. She has grown the company in her region from 22 to 35 offices.  Specializing in business development, coaching, technology, recruitment and retention, Ariosa has led 1500 sales associates to reach record numbers in sales in the region.

“Long & Foster is proud that The Daily Record has recognized Cindy three times as an Influential Marylander, and now had named her to the Circle of Influence list,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “Cindy is certainly deserving of this coveted award – she’s a pillar of the Realtor community, who continually educates agents, advocates for the profession and serves extensively in the broader community.”

To view the complete list of The Daily Record’s 2023 Influential Marylanders, click here.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Top Producers Celebrate Summer

Over 300 agents gather at annual crab feast

Long & Foster Real Estate’s Gold Team—its exclusive club for top-producing agents and teams—celebrated summer at their annual crab feast at Chesapeake Bay Beach Club in Stevensville, Maryland, on July 13.

More than 300 Realtors attended the event including Long & Foster’s top executives, including CEO Patrick Bain, Real Estate President Jackie Thiel and leadership from across Long & Foster’s mortgage, title, insurance, moving, property management and relocation divisions.

A 50/50 raffle, won by Cindy Fox, raised funds for the Gold Team’s charity partner—Housing Families First. Attendees also brought donations of cleaning supplies, diapers, pots and pans, sheets, towels and more for Housing Families First, which supports families facing homelessness by providing a path to a permanent home.

Long & Foster Sales Associates Honored with Latino Agents Award

Award granted to agents impacting nationwide Hispanic homeownership

Congratulations to six Long & Foster Real Estate agents who have been named to the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) Top Latino Agents list. The annual awards recognize top-performing agents whose commitment and hard work have impacted the rate of Hispanic homeownership in communities across the country.

Paul Marston of Long & Foster’s Silver Spring Downtown office placed in two categories: No. 87 in Top 250 Agents and No. 22 in Top 100 Individuals by transactions in the Southeast.

David Osorio of the Oceanfront/Virginia Beach office was also recognized in two categories: No. 250 in the Top 250 list and No. 57 on the Top 100 list for the Southeast region.

Juan Umanzor of the Bethesda One office ranked in three categories: No. 18 in Top 100 Teams, No. 21 in Top 100 Teams by Volume, and No. 17 on Buyer Side transactions by teams.  

Jordan Garcia of the Lewis office earned the No. 96 ranking in the Top 100 category for Buyer Sides in the Northeast.

Diana Mahoney of the Cherry Hill office placed No. 100 in Top 100 for Buyer Sides in the Northeast.

Maria Theresa Guzman of the Roanoke office earned the No. 81 place for Top 100 in the Southeast.

“We congratulate these agents on being named to the NAHREP’s Top Latino Agents list,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “They are well deserving of these prestigious awards based on all of their hard work and contribution to the industry and their communities.”

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Linda Holloway Joins Long & Foster in Easton, Maryland

Long & Foster Real Estate welcomes Linda Holloway to its Easton & St. Michaels Sales office in Easton, Maryland. Holloway will specialize in working with homebuyers and sellers.

“We are very excited and fortunate to have Linda join our team of highly trained professionals,” said Martha Witte Suss, manager of the Easton & St. Michaels Sales office. “The combination of Long & Foster and Linda’s unique skills and knowledge will no doubt provide the highest level of service to local buyers and sellers.”

Holloway is participating in Long & Foster’s Success Path program, which offers extensive training and resources for agents at any stage of their career. The program’s curriculum includes tools for agents to build their business, mentor-style programs, techniques for prospecting and working with buyers and sellers, skills for negotiating and more. Holloway holds membership in the Mid-Shore Board of Realtors.

“The dynamics of today’s residential real estate market are constantly changing. Participating in our Success Path program has provided Linda with the right tools to meet those changing dynamics,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “We welcome Linda to Long & Foster, a company that has helped local buyers and sellers reach their homeownership goals for over 50 years.”

Holloway is an experienced sales professional turned real estate agent, dedicated to helping clients find their dream homes. With a passion for connecting people with the perfect properties, she brings her strong negotiation skills and extensive market knowledge to every transaction. Whether you’re buying, selling or investing, Holloway will guide you through the process with professionalism, integrity and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. 

Holloway has a Bachelor of Arts from Pennsylvania State University’s main campus and has been living in Talbot County since 2007.  Currently, she resides in downtown Easton with her two teenagers and beloved dog, Shiva.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster’s Oceanfront/Coastal Office Hosts Annual Crab Feast

The Oceanfront/Coastal office of Long & Foster Real Estate in Virginia Beach hosted its 9th annual crab feast. Real estate agents and employees with the brokerage’s Oceanfront/Coastal, Kitty Hawk/Outer Banks and Eastern Shore offices, including Cape Charles, Chincoteague and Captain’s Cove, attended the event.

Rain had been predicted, but as in previous years, they got lucky and had beautiful weather on the day of the event. It was a bit warm, but guests still enjoyed dancing on the deck with a custom playlist. The whole building was decorated with crab themed décor, as well as its signature nautical flag draped railings. Fresh flowers were placed on the food tables.

Several bushels of crabs were brought in for the event and everyone had plenty to feast on. There were also hushpuppies, pasta salad, fruit, cheese and chicken, among other items, for those who don’t like seafood. Guests also had several drink options to enjoy while socializing. Every year the party gets better and the team already has ideas for 2024.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.  

Classic Home Offers a Secluded Retreat on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Property combines elegance, comfort and natural beauty near Easton, Maryland

For discerning homebuyers seeking a beautiful estate away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this property is for you. Live the life you’ve always dreamed of on Maryland’s popular Eastern Shore surrounded by nature, wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets.

Located at 11460 Old Cordova Road, in Cordova, Maryland, this property is listed for $1.199M by Martha Witte Suss of the Easton office of Long & Foster Real Estate, exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. The nearly 19-acre estate includes a Federal-style modern brick home built in 2009 with four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, two half bathrooms, and over 4,000 square feet.

The property is situated in a bucolic setting just eight miles from the shops and restaurants of popular Easton, Maryland. The home could be used as a primary residence or as a second home as it is less than a 90-minute drive from both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

“One of the notable features of this home is its federal-style architecture,” said Suss. “The symmetrical design, classic proportions, and refined details of the exterior showcase the timeless and elegant look that characterizes this architectural style. I encourage all interested buyers to visit this extraordinary property to experience it firsthand.”

Ideal as a retreat for family gatherings and entertaining, the interior boasts a spacious open floor plan with 10-foot ceilings and French doors that allow abundant natural light to fill the living spaces. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring a Wolf six burner gas range, a Sub-Zero side-by-side refrigerator, solid quartz countertops, light-filled picture windows, and a walk-in pantry with a secret ladder leading to a loft bedroom above. The attention to detail and thoughtful design make this home perfect for easy Eastern Shore living.

Adding to the property’s natural beauty is a picturesque pond, stocked with fish, which offers a serene setting for relaxation or recreational activities. Fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers will appreciate this serene oasis nestled within the property.

On the estate, you’ll also find a barn/garage that accommodates three large vehicles, with an additional remote door on the back of the building for easy removal of farm equipment. Skylights provide natural light to the structure and a custom ladder leads to the hay loft. Approximately 10 acres of the property are tilled and farmed by a nearby farmer.

The covered parking or workspace alongside the barn provides a versatile space for car washing or a gardening station, adding to the functionality of this remarkable property.

Learn more about 11460 Old Cordova Road by contacting Suss at 410-310-4856 or by email at martha.suss@lnf.com

Long & Foster is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties.

For more information about Long & Foster, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Relocates to New Fairfax County Headquarters

Move aligns with broader strategy to reimagine real estate workspaces

The Long & Foster Companies, parent company of Long & Foster Real Estate, is moving! The Fairfax County-based business will move to a new modern facility located at 3975 Fair Ridge Drive in Fairfax, Virginia, in early July 2023. The relocation aligns with the company’s broader strategy to reimagine workspaces post-pandemic and beyond.

“Real estate is changing, and so are we,” said Patrick Bain, CEO of The Long & Foster Companies. “We’re adapting our approach to workspaces and investing the savings into the resources that celebrate mobility and support the core of our business—our agents, employees and clients. Our offices no longer just provide a desk and a computer; instead, they are places to learn, collaborate, network and grow, connecting us with the communities where we live and work.”

Consolidating and shifting to more open and collaborative workspaces enables Long & Foster’s team to feel more connected with each other and the organization. It also allows the organization to invest more into its team members and client offerings. Already, the organization provides consumers with an all-inclusive approach to real estate, offering everything you need to buy, sell and own a home—real estate, mortgage, title, insurance, moving, and more. The company continues to build on this one-stop-shopping model, delivering the simplified experience that consumers want.

Long & Foster’s new headquarters features an open and light-filled workspace, with a variety of conference and training rooms. Nearly 200 of its headquarters team members will share the space, leveraging hybrid work schedules. In addition to plentiful workstations and meeting areas, employees at the new headquarters have access to an outdoor plaza, on-site dining, a fitness center and more. Plus, it’s conveniently located near I-66 and other major thoroughfares.

To learn more, visit longandfoster.com.

Long & Foster Associates Named as Best Area Real Estate Agents by Washingtonian Magazine

Congratulations to the hundreds of Long & Foster Real Estate agents who were named by Washingtonian as 2023’s Best Agents and Top Producers in the greater D.C. metro area.

Each year, the D.C.-based publication recognizes the highest-producing real estate agents in the local markets as part of its Top Producers list. It also identifies its Best Agents by surveying its subscribers and compiling a list of top agents from thousands of area real estate associates.

This year, as in past years, Long & Foster’s top real estate teams and individual agents were honored in the magazine. The Washingtonian program recognizes how well these leading Realtors know the market and the extraordinary level of service they provide, from simplifying the communication process with their clients to helping ensure streamlined and seamless closings.

For a list of all the Long & Foster agents and teams who were honored as Top Producers by the Washingtonian, visit this e-book. You can also check out the July 2023 issue of Washingtonian for more information.

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Long & Foster Realtors Named ‘America’s Best Real Estate Agents’

Long & Foster Real Estate congratulates its agents and teams who were recognized as America’s Best Real Estate Agents by REAL Trends. This report ranks top real estate professionals by sales volume and transaction sides for 2022, noting the leading agents in each state and metropolitan area. Those ranked are among the top 1.5% of 1.6 million real estate professionals in the United States. 

“All of the Long & Foster sales professionals on this list certainly deserve to be recognized for their hard work, and we are very proud of them,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “These agents are true professionals who provide best-in-class customer service and it’s no surprise they’ve been included on America’s Best Agent’s list.”

To qualify for the list, individual real estate professionals must close 40 residential transaction sides or $16 million in closed sales volume. Teams must close 60 residential transaction sides or $24 million in closed sales volume.

Team categories are based on team size, including small teams (2-5 sales professionals), medium teams (6-10 sales professionals) and large teams (11-20 sales professionals) and mega (21+ sales professionals).

Long & Foster is one of the top real estate companies in the nation as part of HomeServices of America.

For more information, visit longandfoster.com.